Change drug zones

We applaud proposals to reduce the size of drug-free zones and expand access to drug treatment for nonviolent offenders.
The New Jersey Commission to Review Criminal Sentencing recommended reducing the size of the drug-free zones from 1,000 feet to a uniform distance of 200 feet while increasing the penalty for drug-free zone violations from a third-degree crime to a second-degree crime. The commission points out that these changes would improve public safety, lead to a more rational allocation of criminal justice resources and minimize the negative impact of the drug-free zone laws on the state's minority population.
There is a wide support for reform including but not limited to the New Jersey County Prosecutors Association, Gov. Jon Corzine, Attorney General Anne Milgram and many community leaders. Reducing the size of drug-free zones is smart on crime.